West Side Story (1994)

Performances

April 15-16, 21-24, 27-30, 1994

Venue

Community Players Theatre

Corporate Sponsor: CELLULARONE

Synopsis

From the first notes to the final breath, “West Side Story” is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Arthur Laurents’ book remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The score by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim is widely regarded as one of the best ever written. The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical that is one of the theatre’s finest accomplishments. Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is transported to modern-day New York City, as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the “American” Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence, and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.

Based on an idea by Jerome Robbins, Book by Authur Laurentis, Music by Leonard Bernstein, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Entire Original Production Directed and Choreographed by Jerome Robbins

Historian’s Corner

The fourth show of the season was a revival of “West Side Story.” The show was first performed in the 1980-1981 season. CELLULARONE was the corporate sponsor for this production. Kerry Dixon created a simple, yet unique set where the orchestra was placed on an upper level in the rear section of the stage. This placement allowed the orchestra to be seen as well as heard. The other set pieces of her design allowed for fast scene changes to move the classic musical along. The McLean County Community News highly praised this production of “West Side Story.”